Berthel, Polletta Respond to Recent Watertown Crime Surge

October 5, 2022

Watertown-area Republican lawmakers State Sen. Eric Berthel and State Rep. Joe Polletta today responded to the recent surge in Watertown crime that includes separate armed robberies of two liquor stores and an armed robbery at another retail location on Friday night. The liquor store robbery suspects are believed to be behind five additional crimes across the Naugatuck Valley, also on Friday.

 

Sen. Berthel said, “I’m continuing my call to colleagues on the other side of the aisle to put politics aside and address the real causes of this crime. This rash of violent crime in our area is unprecedented and is happening everywhere; these crimes did not happen in a vacuum. Families do not feel safe. Those responsible for the crimes here, in Waterbury or anywhere else in Connecticut must face the appropriate consequences if convicted.

 

“That these abhorrent acts follow reports of declining crime in the state indicates that the majority party is being disingenuous with millions of law-abiding residents. Connecticut families do not need statistics from 2020 through 2021 to tell them that they are safer, or that they are irrational in fearing for their safety. Republicans presented a comprehensive plan nearly one year ago to address the crime that we see today. We had conversations with local police, prosecutors, community leaders and others to find thoughtful solutions. The majority rejected this plan, and we are all paying the price. Nonetheless, we will continue this effort because Connecticut families are concerned for good reason.”

 

Rep. Polletta said, “We continue to hear that crime is down, however our local community and the Greater Waterbury does not share that sentiment. Crime, particularly violent crime, has plagued our area. My hope is that more politicians show support for law enforcement and the rule of law and give law enforcement the tools they need to keep us safe. Enough is enough.”